Donbas strategy unclear: Mariinka capture offers limited value
Russian claims of capturing the Ukrainian town of Mariinka have been met with scepticism, with experts questioning its strategic significance and highlighting ongoing Ukrainian presence within the settlement.
The Institute for the Study of Warfare (ISW) cast doubt on Mariinka's potential as a launchpad for further offensives, characterising it as "a small and completely destroyed settlement" in a recent analysis. This directly contradicts the statements made by Russian Defense Minister Sergei Shoigu to President Vladimir Putin on December 25th, claiming complete control over the town.
Ukrainian officials have vehemently denied these claims, asserting their continued presence within Mariinka's administrative boundaries. Colonel Oleksandr Shtupun, head of the press centre for the "Tavria" Defense Forces, firmly stated, "It is incorrect to speak of a complete capture, as our defenders are still present."
General Valeri Zalujni, Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces, further corroborated this position on December 26th, confirming Ukrainian troop presence in the northern part of Mariinka while acknowledging some retreats in other areas. The ongoing Russian shelling of the town further undermines Moscow's complete capture narrative.
The town's location on the outskirts of Donetsk, a Ukrainian-held city, adds to the ambiguity surrounding its strategic value. Additionally, the extensive damage inflicted by Russian bombardments raises questions about Mariinka's potential as a launching pad for future operations.
The ISW emphasised the logistical challenges already hindering Russian advancements in the Donbas region. Even if captured, Mariinka would offer little to alleviate these difficulties, casting further doubt on the strategic benefit of its potential seizure.
Translation by Iurie Tataru
